Jim Gardner

Jim provides respite for long term foster carers to give them a break from looking after children who are particularly difficult and have behavioural issues. The carers would otherwise receive no alternative support. Society does not provide this kind of service other than from voluntary sources such as this.

Jim gives freely of his own personal time - he gives around eight full weekends to look after and provide entertainment to children who have come from difficult and disadvantaged socio-economic background who also have behavioural and emotional challenges.

I think Jim should be successful because he is giving his own time freely to the community and helping society to deal with problematic care for children who are disadvantaged. I know that he spends his own cash ensuring that the kids have a real time to remember, have fun and are given treats that we can take for granted within family life, like eating out and going to the cinema. Jim is very humble about the great work he does and seeks and receives no recognition for his efforts. I believe we need to recognise people like Jim who give true commitment and love to children who need to be made feel special and at the same time provide an opportunity to carers who are desperate for a break themselves.

Jim is a true role model who gives freely of his own personal time to others and demonstrates a humility which says all about his intention to make life better for others.